Inspiring philanthropy and social investment across borders, sectors and causes

Discussion Paper: Why give away your wealth?

Discussion Paper: Why give away your wealth?

News (International, UK)

7 October 2014

The University of Southampton has released a discussion paper analysing the opinions of UNHW philanthropists signed up to The Giving Pledge. The authors Jana Sadeh, Mirco Tonin and Michael Vlassopoulos bring a more academic analysis to existing personal stories about the charitable giving of UNHW individuals. It provides an interesting insight into the behaviour of notable philanthropists and concludes with some suggestions for effective fundraising.

The paper notes that well known philanthropists and entrepreneurs serve as role models for future generations. Though the number of individuals is relatively small, they still provide billions of dollars to causes around the world and are key comoponents in the promotion of charitable causes.

By analysing the trends evident in the Giving Pledge, the authors provide some light on motivators for philanthropists (legacy, family, joy of giving and creating an impact) plus the personal characteristics of those who are highly effective in their charitable giving. There is also a commentary of use to fundraisers looking to approach self-made UNHW individuals.

The paper appears in the context of wider microeconomic economic research amongst the authors.

Address

Contact

Philanthropy Impact is supported by its members and donors. Philanthropy Impact would like to thank Barrow Cadbury, City Bridge Trust and the Beacon Collaborative for their financial support.

The website has been developed in collaboration with the UK Community Foundations and NPC incorporating content drawn from Philanthropy UK and EAPG websites.

The interactive Guide to Giving and Giving Advice sections are based on content from 'A Guide to Giving'Philanthropy UK's inpirational handbook, first published in 2003, which has played an important role in the development of philanthropy in the UK and beyond. The interactive framework was developed by NPC.